The Dangers of Carbon Monoxide

Sadly, the news today reported the story of another Rhode Island family poisoned by carbon monoxide.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless and odorless gas that can be dangerous, and even deadly. It comes from things that burn fuel, like gas or propone furnaces and gas water heaters, portable generators, or a car engine running in a garage.

The signs

When people are exposed to CO, there are signs, including:

• Headache
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Nausea

If you experience any of these signs, get fresh air immediately and call 9-1-1.

With higher levels, people may experience confusion, vomiting, loss of muscle coordination, loss of consciousness or even death.

Prevention

• Be sure to get a working CO detector and have it properly installed in your home.
• Have your furnace, hot water heater, wood stove and chimney inspected before each heating season
• Never use a generator indoors
• Never run a car engine in a garage, even with the door open
• Don’t use charcoal indoors or grill in an enclosed space.
• Don’t use your gas oven to heat your home

For more information, visit our 4-Safety Program resources, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.